Point-to-point wireless links in Cambridge

A point-to-point wireless link is a radio connection between two buildings or sites, used where running a physical cable is impractical, too expensive or simply not permitted. Common applications in and around Cambridge include connecting an office to a warehouse on the same business park, sharing a broadband connection across a farm across to outbuildings, or linking a main office with a nearby annexe or second premises.

The work involves installing a pair of outdoor wireless units - one at each end of the link - mounted on walls, masts or rooftops with a clear line of sight between them. We calculate the required antenna alignment and gain for the distance involved, mount the units securely in weatherproof housings, and run cabling back to a network switch or router at each end. Alignment is carried out using signal strength tools rather than by eye, which makes a significant difference to throughput and reliability. Throughputs of 100Mbps to 1Gbps are achievable across typical distances.

Attempting this as a DIY project usually results in a link that drops out in poor weather or degrades over time due to incorrect alignment, unsuitable equipment or exposed cabling. Outdoor wireless equipment must be rated for the conditions it will face, and UK planning considerations sometimes apply to mast or roof mounting.

We assess the path between your buildings, confirm line of sight, and advise on the best mounting positions before any equipment is ordered. Once installed, we test throughput and latency to confirm the link performs as expected.

A point-to-point wireless link between two buildings within half a kilometre of each other typically costs between £400 and £1,200 installed, with longer or more complex links priced accordingly.